Electrochemical device for releasing ions

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to an electrochemical device for releasing ions, comprising an electrical circuit comprising a first electrode and a second electrode adapted for providing a galvanic cell when the electrodes are exposed to a fluid constituting an electrolyte, and a boost converter adapted for amplifying a potential generated between the first and the second electrode. The electrical circuit further comprises a third electrode connected with an output side of the boost converter, wherein the second and the third electrode constitutes an electrolytic cell powered by the galvanic cell when the electrodes are exposed to a fluid. The present invention further relates to devices, such as a toothbrush or a shaver, adapted for being used in connection with a fluid, comprising such electrochemical device for releasing ions.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an electrochemical device for releasingions, comprising an electrical circuit comprising a first electrode anda second electrode adapted for providing a galvanic cell, when theelectrodes are exposed to a fluid constituting an electrolyte, and aboost converter adapted for amplifying a potential generated between thefirst and the second electrode. The present invention further relates todevices, such as a toothbrush or a shaver, adapted for being used inconnection with a fluid, comprising such electrochemical device forreleasing ions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Minerals and ions are extensively used and widely recognized for theirpositive effects on the human body. Minerals and ions may for example beused to prevent the formation of bacteria, viruses and fungalinfections. The use of microcurrent are also know for purposes such aseliminating bacteria, stimulating cells of the human body oriontophoresis, which is transportation of ions in a medium and may beused for non-invasive delivery of medicine to the body. Additionally,light of various wavelengths are known to have various advantageouseffects.

In recent years, we have seen that many traditional products have beenredesigned or upgraded with the purpose of improving or contributing ina positive way to the health of the user. Various devices used ineveryday life, such as toothbrushes or shavers, are often low-cost,expendable devices with basic functionalities. Possibilities forimproving the functionality of such devices are often restricted by theneed for keeping manufacturing costs as low as possible. Improvementsmay be directed to the direct functionality of the device, e.g. byproviding new health improving functionalities, or more indirectly byimproving the user experience and thereby increasing compliance andcorrect use.

Toothbrushes and shavers have been developed to include variousfunctionalities based on electronics and internal power supplies.Electronic toothbrushes for example, may measure various parametersduring brushing to improve brushing quality. Ionic toothbrushesincorporating a power source for controlling release of ions, andshavers incorporating battery powered vibration modules for improvingshaving quality are other examples. A disadvantage related to thesedevices is the increase in complexity and thus, the cost of the devices.

A need exists for improving the functionality of everyday deviceswithout considerable increasing product complexity and cost. Further, itmay be advantageous to integrate health stimulation functionalities,such as ion or mineral release, into devices used extensively ineveryday life.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide simple devices that mayhelp to improved quality of treatment and the health of the user.

In particular, it may be seen as a further object of the presentinvention to provide devices that are able to release ions, mineralsand/or microcurrent during use, and that are relatively inexpensive toproduce.

Still further, it may be seen as an object of the present invention toprovide everyday devices incorporating an electrical circuit poweredwithout the need for an integrated power source, such as a battery.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Thus, the above described object and several other objects are intendedto be obtained in a first aspect of the invention by providing anelectrochemical device, comprising a first part and a second part, thefirst part comprising: a first and a second electrode adapted forproviding a galvanic cell when the first and second electrode areexposed to an external fluid, the external fluid constituting anelectrolyte; one or more electrochemical systems; the galvanic celladapted to power, when in operation, the one or more electrochemicalsystems; the second part comprising a boost converter adapted foramplyfing a potential generated between the first electrode and thesecond electrode.

The external fluid is a fluid not comprised, i.e. not present in theelectrochemical device.

The external fluid may be an aqueous solution comprising salts.

The external fluid may be a body fluid, such as sweat or saliva.

The one or more electrochemical systems may be an electrolytic celland/or an electric-powered device, such as a light emitting device.

Thus, in some embodiments the one or more electrochemical system is anelectric-powered device.

In some other embodiments, the one or more electrochemical system are atleast two electrochemical systems.

In some further embodiments, the at least two electrochemical systemsare an electrolytic cell and an electric powered device.

In some embodiments, the electric-powered device is a light emittingdevice or an ultrasound transducer, connected with an output side of theboost converter.

In some embodiments, the electrochemical device is an handheld device,wherein the first part is a handle portion for being held in the hand ofa user, and the second part is a head portion adapted to be in contactwith the external fluid.

First and second electrode are located in the first part or head portionas, in order to power the electrochemical system, the galvanic cell andthus the first and second electrode need to be exposed to an externalfluid.

The first and second electrode are thus adapted to be exposed to a fluidthat is provided externally, i.e. from the outside of theelectrochemical device and not comprised in the electrochemical device.Accordingly, first and second electrode may be either placed on theexternal surface of the first part or head portion so as to be exposedto an external fluid present onto the external surface of the first partor head portion.

Thus, the above described object and several other objects are intendedto be obtained in a first embodiment of the invention by providing anelectrochemical device for releasing ions, comprising an electricalcircuit comprising: a first electrode and a second electrode adapted forproviding a galvanic cell when the electrodes are exposed to a fluidconstituting an electrolyte, and a boost converter adapted foramplifying a potential generated between the first and the secondelectrode, wherein the electrical circuit further comprises a thirdelectrode connected with an output side of the boost converter, thesecond and the third electrode, when exposed to the fluid constitutingan electrolyte, being adapted for providing an electrolytic cell poweredby the galvanic cell, whereby during the electrochemical processes inthe galvanic cell and the electrolytic cell ions are released from oneor more or the electrodes into the electrolyte.

Thus, in some embodiments the one or more electrochemical system may bean electrolytic cell provided by a third electrode connected with anoutput side of the boost converter and the second electrode when exposedto the external fluid constituting an electrolyte, whereby when inoperation ions are released from one or more of the first, second orthird electrode into the external fluid constituting an electrolyte.

As described for the first and second electrode, also the thirdelectrode and the second electrode need to be exposed to an externalfluid so as to provide an electrolytic cell. Thus first, second andthird electrode are located in the first part or head portion.

The first, second and third electrode are thus adapted to be exposed toa fluid that is provided externally, i.e. from the outside of theelectrochemical device and not comprised in the electrochemical device.Accordingly, first, second and third electrode may be either placed onthe external surface of the first part or on the head portion so as tobe exposed to an external fluid present onto the external surface of thefirst part or head portion.

Hereby, a self-powering electrochemical device that is able to releaseions, minerals and microcurrent is provided. The electrochemical devicemay be implemented in a wide variety of products, some of which will befurther described below. The galvanic cell and the integrated boostconverter provides an output potential sufficient to power variouselectric-powered devices and the electrolytic process of an electrolyticcell. Hereby, by choosing suitable materials for the electrodes, ionsand minerals with beneficial properties may be released by the device.Ions and minerals may be used for various purposes, e.g. in relation tothe human or animal body or for cleaning or disinfection purposes. Afurther result of the electrochemical process is that an electricalfield is created between the electrodes. Such electrical field may beused in an iontophoresis process for transportation of the releasedions. Iontophoresis may for example be used for transporting chargedions into the body.

In one embodiment of the electrochemical device the first electrode maybe a cathode electrode of the galvanic cell, the third electrode may bea second cathode electrode of the electrolytic cell, and the secondelectrode may be a common anode electrode shared by the galvanic and theelectrolytic cells. In some embodiments, the first electrode is acathode electrode of the galvanic cell, said third electrode is acathode electrode of the electrolytic cell, and the second electrode isa common anode electrode shared by the galvanic cell and theelectrolytic cell.

In another embodiment the third electrode may constitute a second anodeelectrode. Further, the electrical circuit may comprise a fourthelectrode constituting a second anode electrode connected with an outputside of the boost converter.

In some embodiments, the fourth electrode may be a cathode.

In addition, the first electrode may comprise materials or a combinationof materials chosen from gold, silver, copper, lead, tin, nickel,cobalt, iron, chromium, zinc, manganese, graphene, carbon nanotubes orfullerenes. The second electrode may comprise materials or a combinationof materials chosen from lithium, rubidium, potassium, caesium, barium,strontium, calcium, sodium, magnesium, aluminium and tin. The third andfourth electrodes may comprise materials or a combination of materialschosen from any of the above mentioned groups of materials.

In the embodiment wherein the first electrode is the first cathodeelectrode, the first electrode may preferably comprise materials or acombination of materials chosen from gold, silver, copper, graphite orgraphene, such as carbon nanotubes, the second electrode being thecommon anode electrode may preferably comprise materials or acombination of materials chosen from magnesium or zinc, and the thirdelectrode being the second cathode electrode may preferably comprisematerials or a combination of materials chosen from gold, silver orcopper.

Additionally, the electrical circuit of the electrochemical device maycomprise a light emitting device or an ultrasound transducer connectedwith the output side of the boost converter. Hereby, light and pulseswith associated advantageous effect may be released from the device.Further, the light emitting device may be adapted for emitting light inthe ultra violet spectrum suitable for killing bacteria.

As an alternative or supplement to the light emitting device or anultrasound transducer, the electric circuit may comprise otherelectric-powered devices, such as a loudspeaker, connected with theoutput side of the boost converter. The electrical circuit may alsocomprise both a light emitting device and an ultrasound transducer.Also, the electrical circuit may comprise a timer-circuit for measuringtime.

The boost converter of the electrochemical device described above maycomprise an inductor in the form of a toroidal core inductor comprisinga toroidal core made from a ferromagnetic material, and a coil.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the above-describedelectrochemical device may be incorporated in a toothbrush, wherein theelectrodes are provided on a brush head portion of the toothbrush andions may be released from the electrodes into the oral cavity. Further,the electric field created by the electrodes may have certainadvantageous effects, such as facilitating transportation of releasedions into e.g. the teeth.

According to a still further embodiment of the invention, theabove-described electrochemical device may be incorporated in a shavercomprising a shaver head portion, wherein the electrodes are provided onthe shaver head portion and ions may be released from the electrodesonto the skin. Further, the electric field created by the electrodes mayhave certain advantageous effects, such as facilitating transportationof released ions into the skin.

According to a still further embodiment of the invention, theabove-described electrochemical device may be incorporated in a bottlecap for a bottle or other type of container, wherein the electrodes areprovided on an inner surface of the bottle cap and adapted for beingexposed to a fluid in the bottle, whereby when the electrodes areexposed to the fluid, ions may be released from the electrodes into thefluid in the bottle.

According to a still further embodiment of the invention, theabove-described electrochemical device may be incorporated in awater-cleaning device adapted for cleaning a fluid in a container,wherein the electrochemical device is arranged in a housing adapted forbeing at least partially submerged into a fluid, and wherein theelectrodes are provided on an outer surface of the housing adapted forbeing submerged, whereby when the electrodes are exposed to the fluid,ions may be released from the electrodes into the fluid.

According to a still further embodiment of the invention, theabove-described electrochemical device may be incorporated in a wounddisinfection device for cleaning wounded skin, wherein theelectrochemical device is arranged in a housing and the electrodes areprovided on an exterior interface adapted for being pressed onto an areaof a wounded skin, whereby when the electrodes are exposed to fluids inthe wound area, ions are released from the electrodes into the fluidsand the wound. Further, the electric field created by the electrodes mayhave certain advantageous effects, such as facilitating transportationof released ions into the skin and wound.

According to a still further embodiment of the invention, theabove-described electrochemical device may be incorporated in a lightband comprising a plurality of light emitting device connected with theelectrical circuit, wherein the electrodes are arranged on an innersurface of the light band adapted for coming into contact with the skinof a user whereby when the electrodes are exposed to a fluid on theskin, such as perspiration, the potential created by the galvanicelement powers the light emitting devices and ions are released from theelectrodes.

Alternatively, the light band may comprise only the first and a secondelectrode arranged on the inner surface of the light band and adaptedfor providing a galvanic cell when the inner surface is exposed to afluid, and the plurality of light emitting devices may be connected withan output side of the boost converter of the electrical circuit andthereby powered by the galvanic cell.

The above described object and several other objects may also beobtained in another embodiment of the invention by providing a handhelddevice, such as a toothbrush or a shaver, adapted for being used inconnection with a fluid, the handheld device comprising: a handleportion for being held in the hand of a user, a head portion providedwith a functional unit, such as a brush assembly or a razor assembly,and an electrical circuit, wherein the head portion is provided with atleast a first electrode and a second electrode adapted for providing agalvanic cell when the head portion is exposed to the fluid, the firstelectrode and the second electrode being connected with the electricalcircuit comprising a boost converter adapted for amplifying a potentialgenerated between the first and the second electrode, and wherein thehandheld device further comprises an electric-powered device, such as alight emitting device, connected with an output side of the boostconverter.

According to one embodiment of the handheld device, the first electrodemay be a cathode electrode and the second electrode may be an anodeelectrode. Further, the head portion may be provided with a thirdelectrode connected with an output side of the boost converter, and thesecond and the third electrodes may be adapted for providing anelectrolytic cell, when the head portion is exposed to the fluid.Additionally, the third electrode may be a second cathode electrode oralternatively a second anode electrode.

In the embodiment of the handheld device wherein the first electrode isa first cathode electrode, the first electrode may preferably comprisematerials or a combination of materials chosen from gold, silver,copper, graphite or graphene, such as carbon nanotubes, the secondelectrode being a common anode electrode may preferably comprisematerials or a combination of materials chosen from magnesium or zinc,and the third electrode being the second cathode electrode maypreferably comprise materials or a combination of materials chosen fromgold, silver or copper.

Further, the electric-powered device may be a light emitting device,such as an LED or an ultrasound transducer adapted for transmittingpulses. In addition, the light emitting device may be adapted foremitting light in the ultra violet spectrum suitable for killingbacteria. The handheld device may also comprise both a light emittingdiode device and an ultrasound transducer. In addition, theelectric-powered device may be a loudspeaker. Furthermore, theelectrical circuit may comprises a timer-circuit for measuring time.

Still further, the boost converter of the handheld device may comprisean inductor in the form of a toroidal core inductor comprising atoroidal core made from a ferromagnetic material, and a coil woundaround the core.

In one embodiment of the handheld device described above, the firstelectrode may comprise gold, silver, copper graphite or graphene, suchas carbon nanotubes or fullerenes, or a combination of these, and thesecond electrode may comprise magnesium or zinc. Further, the thirdelectrode may comprise silver or copper.

In one embodiment, the handheld device is a toothbrush and the headportion is a brush head of the toothbrush. In another embodiment, thehandheld device is a dish brush and the head portion is a brush head ofthe dish brush. Further, one or more of the electrodes may beincorporated in the brush assembly of toothbrush or the dish brush.

Alternatively, the handheld device may be a shaver, wherein the headportion is a shaver head provided with one or more razor blades.

Further embodiments, advantages and features of the present inventionwill be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the dependentclaims, the description and the accompanying drawings.

The first and other aspects and/or embodiments of the present inventionmay each be combined with any of the other aspects and/or embodiments.These and other aspects and/or embodiments of the invention will beapparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments describedhereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The electrochemical device and the handheld device according to theinvention will now be described in more detail with regard to theaccompanying figures. The figures show one way of implementing thepresent invention and is not to be construed as being limiting to otherpossible embodiments falling within the scope of the attached claim set.

FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C are schematic diagrams of an electrochemical deviceaccording to some embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 1D is a schematic diagram of an electrical circuit of anelectrochemical device according to some embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 2a-2c show different embodiments of a handheld device in the formof a toothbrush.

FIG. 3 shows a brushing head of the toothbrush.

FIGS. 4a and 4b show different embodiments of a handheld device in theform of a shaver.

FIG. 5 shows one embodiment of a dish brush according to someembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6 shows a schematic drawing of a water-cleaning device comprisingan electrochemical device.

FIG. 7 shows a schematic drawing of a wound disinfection devicecomprising an electrochemical device.

FIG. 8 shows a cross-section of a bottle cap comprising anelectrochemical device.

FIG. 9 shows front- and backsides of a light band comprising anelectrochemical device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1A shows an electrochemical device 106 comprising comprising afirst electrode 105 and a second electrode 104 connected to a boostconverter 101. The first and second electrodes being adapted forproviding a galvanic cell 103 when the electrodes are exposed to anexternal fluid constituting an electrolyte of the galvanic cell. Whenthe electrodes 104 and 105 are immersed in the electrolyte a potential(V_(in)), which may be determined an input potential, is generatedbetween the electrodes. The input potential is amplified by the boostconverter 101 to an output potential (V_(out)) delivered on an outputside of the boost converter.

The galvanic cell 103, in the first part of the electrochemical device,is adapted to power, when in operation, an electrochemical system 102;the boost converter 101 is adapted for amplyfing a potential generatedbetween the first electrode and the second electrode.

FIG. 1B shows an electrochemical device 107 comprising comprising afirst electrode 109 and a second electrode 110 connected to a boostconverter 113 providing the galvanic cell 108.

In the electrochemical device 107, the electrochemical system powered bythe galvanic cell 108 is the electrolytic cell 112 provided by a thirdelectrode 111 connected with an output side of the boost converter 113and the second electrode 110 when exposed to the external fluidconstituting an electrolyte.

FIG. 1C shows an electrochemical device 121 comprising a first electrode119 and a second electrode 118 connected to a boost converter 114.

In the electrochemical device 121, the galvanic cell 120 powers twoelectrochemical systems being an electrolytic cell 116 provided by thesecond electrode 118 and the third electrode 117 and an electric powereddevice 115 connected with an output side of the boost converter 114.

FIG. 1D shows an electrochemical device comprising an electrical circuit14 comprising a first electrode 15 and a second electrode 16 connectedto a boost converter 18. The first and second electrodes being adaptedfor providing a galvanic cell when the electrodes are exposed to a fluidconstituting an electrolyte of the galvanic cell. When the electrodes14, 15 are immersed in the electrolyte a potential (V_(in)), which maybe determined an input potential, is generated between the electrodes.The input potential is amplified by the boost converter 16 to an outputpotential (V_(out)) delivered on an output side of the boost converter.

The boost converter 18 is a DC-DC converter comprising an inductor 21and a transistor T. The inductor comprises a core 22 and a coil 23 woundaround the core. The coil comprises a primary winding connected with acollector terminal of the transistor T, and a secondary windingconnected with a base terminal of the transistor via a resistor R. Theboost converter 18 may also be denoted a switched-mode power supply or ablocking oscillator. The first electrode is connected to the inductorand the second electrode is connected with an emitter terminal of thetransistor. The boost converter 18 hereby amplifies the potentialbetween the first and second electrodes to an output potential, V_(out)of approximately 3-15 V delivered as high frequency pulses. The outputside of the boost converter is defined as the collector and emitterterminals of the transistor, and the output potential is the potentialbetween the collector and emitter of the transistor. Details about thefunctionality of the boost converter should be readily understood by theskilled person. Further, the boost converter may also be constructed inother ways known to the skilled person, without departing from the scopeof the invention.

The output potential, V_(out) delivered by the boost converter is usedto power an electric-powered device 19, such as a light emitting device,an ultrasound transducer or another type of electric powered device.Subject to the materials chosen for the electrodes, the boost converteris able to amplify the potential created by the galvanic cell using tapwater as an electrolyte to a level sufficient to drive a conventionallight emitting diode, LED or an ultrasound transducer.

Still referring to FIG. 1D, a third electrode 17 connected with theoutput side of the boost converter 18 is provided as part of theelectrical circuit. Together with the second electrode 16, the thirdelectrode 17 is adapted for providing an electrolytic cell, when theelectrodes are exposed to a fluid constituting an electrolyte of theelectrolytic cell. The output potential, V_(out) may generate anelectrical current between the second and the third electrode,sufficient to drive an electrolytic process in the electrolytic cell.

Depending on the electrode material and the constituents of the fluidused as an electrolyte, various reactions may take place. According toone embodiment, materials for the electrodes are chosen such that thefirst electrode 15 constitutes the cathode and the second electrode 16constitutes the anode of the galvanic cell. The first cathode electrode15 may for example comprise gold, silver, copper, graphite or graphene,e.g. in the form of carbon nanotubes or fullerenes, or an alloycomprising one or more of these materials. The anode electrode 16 maycomprise magnesium, zinc, or an alloy comprising one or more of thesematerials.

When the electrodes are exposed to the electrolyte, an oxidation processtakes place at the anode electrode whereby positive metal ions, such asmagnesium ions, are released into the fluid. During the oxidationreaction electrodes are freed and these travel to the first electrode 15or the cathode electrode via the electrical circuit. At the cathodeelectrode, a reduction reaction takes place as the electrodes areabsorbed by positive ions. Hereby the cathode electrode may beconsidered the positive side and the anode electrode the negative sideof a power supply.

The electric potential created between the anode electrode and thecathode electrode of the galvanic cell is determined by the standardelectrode potential of the electrode materials. Fullerenes and carbonnanotubes provides unique electrical properties and these may be usedfor the cathode electrode to increase the potential created between theelectrodes. The maximum theoretical potential is about 2.4 V, but inpractice the potential is somewhat lower and dependent on amongst othersthe temperature, ion concentration and resistance in the electrodes.

As described above the electrolytic reaction in the electrolytic cell ispowered by the potential created in the galvanic cell. Again, dependenton the materials chosen for the electrodes, the electrolytic process mayresult in various metal ions such as copper ions or silver ions beingreleased from the third electrode.

According to one embodiment, magnesium or zinc or an alloy comprisingthese is chosen as the material for the second electrode and silver orcopper or an alloy comprising these is chosen as the material for thethird electrode. With the third electrode connected to the positive sideof the output side of the boost converter 18, the third electrode willconstitute a cathode electrode of the electrolytic cell. In thisexemplary embodiment the second electrode constitutes a common anodeshared by both the galvanic cell and the electrolytic cell. During theelectrolytic reaction oxidation takes place at the anode and a reductionreaction takes places at the cathode. Further, the reaction at thecathode electrode may result in the release of silver or copper ions,dependent on the material of the cathode electrode.

The composition of the electrolyte may also influence the reactions atthe electrodes and the associated release of ions. Accordingly, anelectrolyte with specific properties may be used to achieve specificresults. In general the electrode potential and concentration of ions ina solution has an impact on the reactions which takes place and whichions that are reduce and oxidised at the cathode and the anode,respectively.

Referring to FIG. 2-5, a handheld device according to the invention willbe described in further detail below. The handheld device comprises ahandle portion 11 for being held in the hand of a user, and a headportion 12 extending from the handle portion. Further, the head portionis provided with a functional unit 13, such as a brush assembly 13 a. Afirst electrode 15 and a second electrode 16 connected with anelectrical circuit 14 are arranged on the head portion, adapted forproviding a galvanic cell when the head portion in exposed to a fluidconstituting an electrolyte. Finally, the handheld device comprises anelectric-powered device 19, such as a light emitting device 19 a,connected with the electrical circuit.

FIG. 2a shows a handheld device in the form of a toothbrush 1 a. Thetoothbrush comprising a handle portion 11 and a head portion in the formof a bush head 12 a provided with a functional unit in the form of abrush assembly 13 a. The toothbrush further comprises an electricalcircuit 14 and electrodes 15, 16 as described above. The electrodes areshown to be positioned at opposite sides of the head portion andconnected to the remaining electrical circuit integrated in the handleportion 11. The electric-powered device is a light emitting device 19 awhich may comprise one or more light emitting diodes. The electricalcircuit including the boost converter 18 and the electric-powered devicemay alternatively be integrated in the head portion or other parts ofthe toothbrush as envisaged by the skilled person.

When the toothbrush is used, the electrodes in combination with anexternal fluid, i.e. water, saliva and/or toothpaste create a galvaniccell as described above. The galvanic cell powers the light emittingdevice 19 a via the boost converter 18 and light may be emitted. Thelight emitted may be used for both functional purposes and for guidingthe user. In one embodiment the electrical circuit 14 is provided with atimer circuit (not shown) providing a timer function. The timer functionmeasures the time the toothbrush has been used and may for example beactivated when the electrodes are exposed to a fluid for the first time.When the electrodes are exposed to the fluid the light emitting deviceemits a light of a specific colour, e.g. red, and after a predeterminedperiod, for example 2 minutes, the light emitted changes colour, e.g. togreen. The user is thereby informed about how long the toothbrush hasbeen used. The light emitting device may also light up to indicate thatthe toothbrush is properly used or as a simple gimmick for stimulatinguse of the toothbrush. Additionally, the electrical circuit and thelight emitting device may be designed in such a way that the lightemitting device only turns on during a fixed period starting from thefirst time the toothbrush is used. Hereby, the user may be notified whenit is time to change the toothbrush. This functionality may for examplebe implemented by proper dimensioning of the size of the electrodes ofthe galvanic cell, such that the galvanic cell ceases to operate after apredetermined period of time.

In another embodiment, the light emitting device 19 may be adapted foremitting light in the ultra violet spectrum and the light emittingdevice may be arranged at or near the head portion 12. The ultra violetlight may be used for killing bacteria either during use of thetoothbrush or between uses. The light emitting device may also beadapted for emitting light having a whitening effect on the teeth.

FIG. 2b shows another embodiment which, compared to the embodiment ofFIG. 2a , additionally comprises a third electrode 17. The thirdelectrode may function as a second cathode as described above inconnection with the electrochemical device. Hereby, an electrolytic cellis created when the toothbrush is exposed to a fluid and an electrolyticprocess may take place. The electrolytic process may produce variousions such as copper ions or silver ions, which may have beneficialeffects related to the teeth and mouth hygiene. For example, copper andsilver ions may be used to fight bacteria, viruses and fungalinfections. Additionally, creating negative ion, such as chloride ionsor hydroxide ions may assist in removing plaque as plaque is boned tothe teeth by positive ions. Further, the potential created between theelectrodes create an electrical field resulting in microcurrents flowingin the electrolyte and in other parts of the oral cavity, such as in theteeth. Such microcurrents may facilitate transportation of charged ionsinto the teeth and other parts of the oral cavity.

FIG. 2c shows another embodiment, which may in addition to theembodiments shown in FIGS. 2a and 2b , comprise an ultrasound transducer19 b. The ultrasound transducer is arranged at the head portion and maybe used for emitting vibrations in the form of ultrasound. Emittedwavelength may be determined based on the objects to be achieved. Forexample, ultrasound vibrations may be used to clean the teeth byremoving plaque and other impurities.

FIG. 3 shows a brush head 12 a, which may be a brush head of theprevious disclosed embodiments. The brush head comprises a brushassembly 13 a comprising a plurality of brushes 131. As shown, theelectrodes may be incorporated in the bush assembly in the form ofbrushes 131.

Further, the toothbrush may be designed and manufactured in such a waythat the brush head 12 a constitutes an exchangeable and disposablepart, which can be changed more frequently than the remaining parts ofthe toothbrush. For example, it may be advantageous to be able to changethe brush head, if one or more electrodes has to be replaced.Additionally, by providing an exchangeable brush head the total livecycle cost and the carbon footprint of a toothbrush may be reduced.

FIG. 4a shows a handheld device in the form of a shaver 1 c. The shaver1 c comprising a handle portion 11 and a head portion in the form of ashaver head 12 c provided with one or more razor blades 13 c. The shaverfurther comprises an electrical circuit 14 and electrodes 15, 16 asdescribed above in connection with the toothbrush. The electrodes areshown to be positioned at opposite sides of the head portion andconnected to the remaining electrical circuit integrated in the handleportion 11. The electric-powered device is a light emitting device 19 a,which may comprise one or more light emitting diodes. The electricalcircuit including the boost converter 18 and the electric-powered devicemay also be integrated in the head portion or other parts of thetoothbrush as envisaged by the skilled person.

When the shaver is used the electrodes come into contact with water,shaving cream and/or moisture on the skin thereby creating a galvaniccell according to the principles described above. The galvanic cellpowers the light emitting device 19 a via the boost converter 18 andlight may be emitted. The light emitted may be used for both functionalpurposes and for guiding the user. The electrical circuit 14 may beprovided with a timer circuit (not shown) providing a timer function asdescribed above. The light emitting device may also light up to indicatethat the shaver is properly used or for other purposes envisaged by theskilled person. As is also described above in relation to thetoothbrush, the light emitting device 19 may also be adapted foremitting light in the ultra violet spectrum. Additionally, theelectrical circuit and the light emitting device may be designed in sucha way that the light emitting device only turns on during a fixed periodstarting from the first time of use of the shaver or a shaver head.Hereby, the user may be notified when it is time to change the shaver orthe shaver head. This functionality may for example be implemented bydimensioning of the size of the electrodes in such a way that thegalvanic cell ceases to operate after a predetermined period.

FIG. 4b shows another embodiment of a shaver which, compared to theembodiment of FIG. 4a , additionally comprises a third electrode 17.When using the shaver in connection with water, moisture on the skinand/or shaving cream an electrolytic cell and associated electrolyticreaction as described above may be created. Also as described above, theelectrolytic process may produce various ions and microcurrents, whichmay have beneficial effects related to the skin. Further, the shaver maybe designed and manufactured in such a way that the shaver head 12 cconstitutes an exchangeable and disposable part, which can be changedmore frequently than the remaining parts of the shaver. This may forobvious reasons be advantageous, if one or more electrodes needsreplacement before the remaining shaver components.

In one embodiment the shaver may also be provided with an ultrasoundtransducer (not shown) or other vibration module adapted for emittingvibrations. Vibrating a shaver head is a known method form improvingshaving quality. According to the present invention, a vibration modulemay be powered by a galvanic cell using shaving cream, water and/or skinmoisture as an electrolyte.

Consequently, no external or integrated power supply, such as a battery,is needed.

FIG. 5 shows a handheld device in the form of a dish brush. The dishbrush comprises a handle portion 11 and a head portion in the form of abush head 12 b provided with a functional unit in the form of a brushassembly 13 b. The dish brush further comprises an electrical circuit 14as indicated by the dotted square and first and second electrodes 15, 16shown to be incorporated in the brush assembly. Here it is noted thatthe electrodes 15, 16 may also be incorporated in other parts of thebrush head 12 b as described in connection with the toothbrushembodiments. The electrical circuit may be fully or partly integrated inthe handle portion. The electrical circuit comprises an electric-powereddevice in the form of a light emitting device 19 a, which may compriseone or more light emitting diodes. The light emitting device may bearrange either in connection with the head portion or the handleportion.

The dish brush may further comprise an ultrasound transducer (not shown)or other vibration module adapted for emitting vibrations. Vibrationsmay be used for removing dirt or other substances, which are especiallydifficult to rinse off, such as burned or dried foodstuff. Theultrasound transducer or vibration module may be selectively activatedby the user of simply activated when the dish brush is exposed to afluid.

When the dish brush is used in combination with water or other fluids agalvanic cell is created according to principles described earlier. Thegalvanic cell powers the light emitting device 19 a, and possible alsothe vibration module. The light emitted may be used for both functionalpurposes and for guiding the user. In one embodiment the electricalcircuit 14 is provided with a temperature sensor (not shown) formeasuring a temperature of the water used in connection with the dishbrush. The temperature sensor monitors the temperature and informs theuser via the light emitting device when the temperature is below orabove a predefined temperature threshold. This may be done by a changein colour of the light emitted. Additionally, the electrical circuit maybe provided with a timer function for measuring how long the dish brushhas been used. The dish brush may also incorporate features andfunctions mentioned in relation to the toothbrush embodiments.

In another embodiment, the light emitting device 19 may be adapted foremitting light in the ultra violet spectrum and the light emittingdevice may be arranged in such a way that emitted light reaches thebrush assembly 13 b. The ultra violet light may be used for killingbacteria during use or between uses of the dish brush.

FIG. 6 shows a water-cleaning device 3 submerged in a containercontaining water or possibly another fluid. The water-cleaning deviceintegrates the electrochemical device 1 as described above, and theelectrical circuit 14 is arranged in a housing 31. The housing isadapted for being submerged in water and the electrodes 15, 16, 17 ofthe electrochemical device are provided on an outer surface 32 of thehousing. When the water-cleaning device is submerged and the electrodesare exposed to water, the galvanic and electrolytic reactions describedabove are initiated. Hereby, ions may be released from the electrodesinto the water, which may help to kill bacteria, clean the water orenrich the water with beneficial ions and minerals.

FIG. 7 shows a wound disinfection device for cleaning wounded skin, suchas an insect bite. The wound disinfection device integrates theelectrochemical device 1 as described above, and the electrical circuit14 is arranged in a housing 41. The electrodes are provided on anexterior interface 42 of the housing adapted for being pressed onto anarea of a wounded skin. When the electrodes are exposed to fluids in thewound area, ions and microcurrent may be released from the electrodesinto the fluids and the wound.

FIG. 8 shows a cross-section of a bottle cap 5 for being mounted on abottle. The bottle cap comprises a flange 52 for being mounted on abottle or other containers (not shown) and a fluid passage 53 throughwhich fluid may flow from the bottle. The bottle cap further comprisesthe electrochemical device 1 as described above, with the electrodesmounted in the fluid passage on an inner surface 51 of the bottle cap.Hereby, the electrodes are exposed to fluids flowing from the bottle.When the electrodes are exposed to the fluid, ions may be released intothe water, which may help to kill bacteria, clean the water or enrichthe water with beneficial ions and minerals.

FIG. 9 shows front- and backsides of a light band 6, which may be aheadband or an armband adapted for being worn around the head, arm orother parts of the body. The light band may also be integrated in otherwearable garments. The light band comprises the electrochemical device 1described above and a plurality of light emitting devices 19 a arrangedon an outer surface 61 of the light band. The light emitting devices 19a are electrically connected with the electrical circuit 14 and theboost converter 18. The electrodes 15, 16, 17 are arranged on an innersurface 62 of the light band adapted for coming into contact with theskin of a user. Hereby, when the electrodes are exposed to fluids on theskin, such as perspiration, the light emitting devices are powered bythe galvanic cell and ions may be released from the electrodes to theskin.

Although the present invention has been described in connection with thespecified embodiments, it should not be construed as being in any waylimited to the presented examples. The handheld device may for examplealso be a mobile phone or tablet, in which the galvanic cell incombination with the boost converter may be used as a backup powersource or as a source for charging batteries.

The scope of the present invention is set out by the accompanying claimset. In the context of the claims, the terms “comprising” or “comprises”do not exclude other possible elements or steps. Also, the mentioning ofreferences such as “a” or “an” etc. should not be construed as excludinga plurality. The use of reference signs in the claims with respect toelements indicated in the figures shall also not be construed aslimiting the scope of the invention. Furthermore, individual featuresmentioned in different claims, may possibly be advantageously combined,and the mentioning of these features in different claims does notexclude that a combination of features is not possible and advantageous.

Items

The invention also relates to the following items:

-   -   1. An electrochemical device (1) for releasing ions, comprising        an electrical circuit (14) comprising:        -   a first electrode (15) and a second electrode (16) adapted            for providing a galvanic cell when the electrodes are            exposed to a fluid constituting an electrolyte, and        -   a boost converter (18) adapted for amplifying a potential            (V_(in)) generated between the first electrode and the            second electrode,    -   wherein the electrical circuit further comprises a third        electrode (17) connected with an output side of the boost        converter, the second electrode and the third electrode, when        exposed to the fluid constituting an electrolyte, being adapted        for providing an electrolytic cell powered by the galvanic cell,        whereby during the electrochemical processes in the galvanic        cell and the electrolytic cell ions may be released from one or        more or the electrodes into the electrolyte.    -   2. An electrochemical device according to item 1, wherein the        first electrode is a cathode electrode (15) of the galvanic        cell, the third electrode is a cathode electrode of the        electrolytic cell, and the second electrode is a common anode        electrode (16) shared by the galvanic cell and the electrolytic        cell.    -   3. An electrochemical device according to item 1 or 2, wherein        electrical circuit further comprises a light emitting device (19        a) or an ultrasound transducer (19 b), connected with an output        side of the boost converter.    -   4. An electrochemical device according to any of the previous        items, wherein the boost converter comprises an inductor (21) in        the form of a toroidal core inductor comprising a toroidal core        (22) made from a ferromagnetic material, and a coil (23) wound        around the toroidal core.    -   5. An electrochemical device according to any of the previous        items, wherein the first electrode comprises graphene, such as        carbon nanotubes or fullerenes, the anode electrode comprises        magnesium or zinc, and the third electrode comprises silver or        copper.    -   6. A toothbrush (1 a) comprising the electrochemical device as        described in any of the items 1-5, wherein the electrodes are        provided on a brush head portion (12 a) of the toothbrush,        whereby when the electrodes are exposed to a fluid in the oral        cavity, ions may be released from the electrodes into the oral        cavity.    -   7. A shaver (1 c) comprising the electrochemical device as        described in any of the items 1-5, wherein the electrodes are        provided on a shaver head portion (12 c) of the shaver, whereby        when the electrodes are exposed to a fluid on the skin, ions may        be released from the electrodes onto the skin.    -   8. A bottle cap (5) for being mounted on a bottle, comprising        the electrochemical device as described in any of the items 1-5,        wherein the electrodes are provided on an inner surface (51) of        the bottle cap arranged for being exposed to a fluid in the        bottle, whereby ions may be released from the electrodes into        the fluid, when the fluid passes the electrodes.    -   9. A water-cleaning device (3) adapted for cleaning water in a        container, the water-cleaning device comprising the        electrochemical device as described in any of the claim items        1-5 arranged in a housing (31) adapted for being at least        partially submerged in water, wherein the electrodes are        provided on an outer surface (32) of the housing adapted for        being submerged, whereby when the electrodes are exposed to        water, ions may be released from the electrodes into the water.    -   10. A wound disinfection device (4) for cleaning wounded skin,        comprising an electrochemical device as described in any of the        items 1-5 arranged in a housing (41), wherein the electrodes are        provided on an exterior interface (42) adapted for being pressed        onto an area of a wounded skin, whereby when the electrodes are        exposed to fluids in the wound area, ions may be released from        the electrodes into the fluids and the wound.    -   11. A handheld device (2), such as a toothbrush or a shaver,        adapted for being used in connection with a fluid, comprising:        -   a handle portion (11) for being held in the hand of a user,        -   a head portion (12) provided with a functional unit (13),            such as a brush assembly or a razor assembly, and        -   an electrical circuit (14),    -   wherein the head portion is provided with at least a first        electrode (15) and a second electrode (16) adapted for providing        a galvanic cell when the head portion is exposed to the fluid,        the first electrode and the second electrode being connected        with the electrical circuit comprising a boost converter (18)        adapted for amplifying a potential (V_(in)) generated between        the first and the second electrode, and wherein the handheld        device further comprises an electric-powered device (19), such        as a light emitting device (19 a), connected with an output side        of the boost converter.    -   12. A handheld device according to item 11, wherein the first        electrode is a cathode electrode (15) and the second electrode        is an anode electrode (16) of the galvanic cell.    -   13. A handheld device according to item 11 or 12, wherein the        electric-powered device is a light emitting device (19 a) or and        ultrasound transducer (19 b) adapted for transmitting pulses.    -   14. A handheld device according to any of the items 11-13,        wherein the handheld device is a toothbrush (1 a) and the head        portion is a brush head (12 a) of the toothbrush.    -   15. A handheld device according to any of the items 11-14,        wherein the head portion is provided with a third electrode (17)        connected with an output side of the boost converter, and the        second and the third electrodes are adapted for providing an        electrolytic cell when the head portion is exposed to the fluid.

The invention also relates to the following items and embodimentsaccording to the first aspect of the invention and its embodiments:

-   -   16. An electrochemical device according to first aspect of the        invention and its embodiments, wherein the first electrode        comprises graphene, such as carbon nanotubes or fullerenes, the        second electrode comprises magnesium or zinc, and said third        electrode comprises silver or copper.    -   17. An electrochemical device according to first aspect of the        invention and its embodiments, wherein the electrochemical        device is a toothbrush and wherein the first, second and third        electrodes are provided on a brush head portion of the        toothbrush, whereby when the electrodes are exposed to the        external fluid in the oral cavity, ions may be released from the        electrodes into the oral cavity.    -   18. An electrochemical device according to first aspect of the        invention and its embodiments, wherein the electrochemical        device is a shaver and wherein the first, second and third        electrodes are provided on a shaver head portion of the shaver,        whereby when the electrodes are exposed to the external fluid on        the skin, ions may be released from the electrodes onto the        skin.    -   19. An electrochemical device according to first aspect of the        invention and its embodiments, wherein said electrochemical        device is a bottle cap for being mounted on a bottle and wherein        said first, second and third electrodes are provided on an inner        surface of said bottle cap arranged for being exposed to said        external fluid in said bottle, whereby when the electrodes are        exposed to said external fluid in said bottle, ions may be        released from the electrodes into said external fluid in said        bottle.    -   20. An electrochemical device according to first aspect of the        invention and its embodiments, wherein said electrochemical        device is a water-cleaning device adapted for cleaning water in        a container, wherein said first, second and third electrodes are        arranged in a housing adapted for being at least partially        submerged in water, wherein said first, second and third        electrodes are provided on an outer surface of said housing        adapted for being submerged, whereby when the electrodes are        exposed to said external fluid, such as water, ions may be        released from the electrodes into said external fluid.    -   21. An electrochemical device according to first aspect of the        invention and its embodiments, wherein said electrochemical        device is a wound disinfection device for cleaning wounded skin,        wherein said first, second and third electrodes are arranged in        a housing and wherein said first, second and third electrodes        are provided on an exterior interface adapted for being pressed        onto an area of a wounded skin, whereby when the electrodes are        exposed to said external fluids located in the wound area, ions        may be released from the electrodes into said external fluids in        the wound area.    -   22. An electrochemical device according to first aspect of the        invention and its embodiments, wherein said electric-powered        device is a light emitting device, connected with an output side        of said boost converter.    -   23. An electrochemical device according to first aspect of the        invention and its embodiments, further comprising an electrical        circuit;    -   wherein said handheld device is adapted for being used in        connection with said external fluid, wherein said head portion        is provided with a functional unit, wherein said head portion is        provided with at least said first electrode and said second        electrode adapted for providing said galvanic cell when said        head portion is exposed to said external fluid, said first        electrode and said second electrode being connected with said        electrical circuit comprising said boost converter adapted for        amplifying a potential (V_(in)) generated between said first and        said second electrode, and wherein said handheld device further        comprises said electric-powered device, such as a light emitting        device, connected with an output side of said boost converter.    -   24. An electrochemical device according to first aspect of the        invention and its embodiments, wherein said functional unit is a        brush assembly or a razor assembly.    -   25. An electrochemical device according to first aspect of the        invention and its embodiments, wherein the electric-powered        device is a light emitting device or and ultrasound transducer        adapted for transmitting pulses.    -   26. An electrochemical device according to first aspect of the        invention and its embodiments, wherein said handheld device is a        toothbrush and said head portion is a brush head of the        toothbrush.    -   27. An electrochemical device according to first aspect of the        invention and its embodiments, wherein said head portion is        provided with said third electrode connected with an output side        of said boost converter, and said second and said third        electrodes are adapted for providing an electrolytic cell when        said head portion is exposed to said external fluid.

1. An electrochemical device, comprising a first part and a second part,said first part comprising: a first and a second electrode adapted forproviding a galvanic cell when said first and second electrode areexposed to an external fluid, said fluid constituting an electrolyte,one or more electrochemical system; said galvanic cell adapted to power,when in operation, said one or more electrochemical system; said secondpart comprising a boost converter adapted for amplyfing a potentialgenerated between said first electrode and said second electrode.
 2. Anelectrochemical device according to claim 1, wherein saidelectrochemical device is an handheld device, wherein said first part isa handle portion for being held in the hand of a user, and said secondpart is a head portion adapted to be in contact with said externalfluid.
 3. An electrochemical device according to claim 1, wherein saidone or more electrochemical system are an electrolytic cell provided bya third electrode connected with an output side of said boost converterand said second electrode when exposed to said external fluidconstituting an electrolyte, whereby when in operation ions are releasedfrom one or more of said first, second or third electrode into saidexternal fluid constituting an electrolyte.
 4. An electrochemical deviceaccording to claim 3, wherein said first electrode is a cathodeelectrode of said galvanic cell, said third electrode is a cathodeelectrode of said electrolytic cell, and said second electrode is acommon anode electrode shared by said galvanic cell and saidelectrolytic cell.
 5. An electrochemical device according to claim 1wherein said one or more electrochemical system is an electric-powereddevice.
 6. An electrochemical device according to claim 1, wherein saidone or more electrochemical system are at least two electrochemicalsystems.
 7. An electrochemical device according to claim 6, wherein saidat least two electrochemical systems are an electrolytic cell and anelectric powered device.
 8. An electrochemical device according to claim6, wherein electric-powered device is a light emitting device or anultrasound transducer, connected with an output side of the boostconverter.
 9. An electrochemical device according to claim 1, whereinsaid boost converter comprises an inductor in the form of a toroidalcore inductor comprising a toroidal core made from a ferromagneticmaterial, and a coil wound around the toroidal core.
 10. Anelectrochemical device according to claim 3, wherein said firstelectrode comprises graphene, such as carbon nanotubes or fullerenes,said second electrode comprises magnesium or zinc, and said thirdelectrode comprises silver or copper.
 11. An electrochemical deviceaccording to claim 3, wherein said electrochemical device is atoothbrush and wherein said first, second and third electrodes areprovided on a brush head portion of the toothbrush, whereby when saidelectrodes are exposed to said external fluid in the oral cavity, ionsmay be released from the electrodes into the oral cavity.
 12. Anelectrochemical device according to claim 3, wherein saidelectrochemical device is a shaver and wherein said first, second andthird electrodes are provided on a shaver head portion of the shaver,whereby when the electrodes are exposed to said external fluid on theskin, ions may be released from the electrodes onto the skin.
 13. Anelectrochemical device according to claim 3, wherein saidelectrochemical device is a bottle cap for being mounted on a bottle andwherein said first, second and third electrodes are provided on an innersurface of said bottle cap arranged for being exposed to said externalfluid in said bottle, whereby when the electrodes are exposed to saidexternal fluid in said bottle, ions may be released from the electrodesinto said external fluid in said bottle.
 14. An electrochemical deviceaccording to claim 3, wherein said electrochemical device is awater-cleaning device adapted for cleaning water in a container, whereinsaid first, second and third electrodes are arranged in a housingadapted for being at least partially submerged in water, wherein saidfirst, second and third electrodes are provided on an outer surface ofsaid housing adapted for being submerged, whereby when the electrodesare exposed to said external fluid, such as water, ions may be releasedfrom the electrodes into said external fluid.
 15. An electrochemicaldevice according to claim 3, wherein said electrochemical device is awound disinfection device for cleaning wounded skin, wherein said first,second and third electrodes are arranged in a housing and wherein saidfirst, second and third electrodes are provided on an exterior interfaceadapted for being pressed onto an area of a wounded skin, whereby whenthe electrodes are exposed to said external fluids located in the woundarea, ions may be released from the electrodes into said external fluidsin the wound area.
 16. An electrochemical device according to claim 5,wherein said electric-powered device is a light emitting device,connected with an output side of said boost converter.
 17. Anelectrochemical device according to claim 5, further comprising anelectrical circuit; wherein said handheld device is adapted for beingused in connection with said external fluid, wherein said head portionis provided with a functional unit, wherein said head portion isprovided with at least said first electrode and said second electrodeadapted for providing said galvanic cell when said head portion isexposed to said external fluid, said first electrode and said secondelectrode being connected with said electrical circuit comprising saidboost converter adapted for amplifying a potential generated betweensaid first and said second electrode, and wherein said handheld devicefurther comprises said electric-powered device, such as a light emittingdevice, connected with an output side of said boost converter.
 18. Anelectrochemical device according to claim 5, further comprising anelectrical circuit; wherein said handheld device is adapted for beingused in connection with said external fluid, wherein said head portionis provided with a functional unit, wherein said head portion isprovided with at least said first electrode and said second electrodeadapted for providing said galvanic cell when said head portion isexposed to said external fluid, said first electrode and said secondelectrode being connected with said electrical circuit comprising saidboost converter adapted for amplifying a potential generated betweensaid first and said second electrode, and wherein said handheld devicefurther comprises said electric-powered device, such as a light emittingdevice, connected with an output side of said boost converter, whereinsaid functional unit is a brush assembly or a razor assembly.
 19. Anelectrochemical device according to claim 5, further comprising anelectrical circuit; wherein said handheld device is adapted for beingused in connection with said external fluid, wherein said head portionis provided with a functional unit, wherein said head portion isprovided with at least said first electrode and said second electrodeadapted for providing said galvanic cell when said head portion isexposed to said external fluid, said first electrode and said secondelectrode being connected with said electrical circuit comprising saidboost converter adapted for amplifying a potential generated betweensaid first and said second electrode, and wherein said handheld devicefurther comprises said electric-powered device, such as a light emittingdevice, connected with an output side of said boost converter, whereinthe electric-powered device is a light emitting device or and ultrasoundtransducer adapted for transmitting pulses.
 20. An electrochemicaldevice according to claim 17, wherein said handheld device is atoothbrush and said head portion is a brush head of the toothbrush. 21.(canceled)